The United Kingdom has announced an increase in the minimum living expenses international students must demonstrate when applying for a Student visa, a change expected to affect Nigerians planning to study in British universities.
The revised financial requirements will take effect on November 30, 2026, requiring applicants to provide evidence that they can afford their living expenses while studying in the country.
Under the new rules, students intending to study in London must show access to £1,570 per month, while those studying outside the capital will need to demonstrate £1,203 monthly.
New financial requirements for international students
The updated thresholds represent an increase from the existing requirements of £1,529 per month for students in London and £1,171 for those studying elsewhere in the UK.
For courses lasting nine months or longer, the maximum living-cost funds applicants must demonstrate will be:
- London: £14,130, up from £13,761.
- Outside London: £10,827, up from £10,539.
The money is intended to cover everyday expenses, including accommodation, food and transport. It is separate from tuition fees, visa application charges and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
What Nigerian students need to know
Nigerian students planning to apply for UK study visas should factor the increased requirements into their financial preparations.
Applicants generally need to demonstrate that the required funds have been held for at least 28 consecutive days, with the end of that period falling within 31 days of the visa application date. Acceptable evidence may include qualifying bank statements, official financial sponsorship or eligible student loan documentation.
The required amount depends on where the student will study and the length of the course, up to a maximum of nine months of living expenses.
Students who have already paid eligible accommodation fees to their university or college may be able to deduct a limited amount from the required maintenance funds, subject to the applicable rules.
The increase will apply to Student visa applications submitted on or after November 30. Applicants submitting their applications before that date will generally be assessed under the previous financial thresholds.
Higher costs add to study-abroad planning
The adjustment comes as prospective international students continue to weigh tuition costs, accommodation expenses and other financial commitments when choosing overseas universities.
For Nigerian families, the new thresholds mean that careful financial planning will be increasingly important before accepting admission offers and submitting visa applications.
Prospective applicants are advised to check the latest official UK government guidance before applying to ensure they meet the requirements in force on their application date.
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